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What To Do if Guests Are Unhappy With Your Hotel

By: Dan Coconate

 

Woman staying in a hotel room with luggage.Open the curtain and door in the room looking to outside view.

As a hotel owner or manager, it can be disheartening to receive complaints from guests who are not satisfied with their stay. However, rather than viewing complaints as setbacks, consider them as valuable opportunities to enhance your services and make improvements that will benefit future guests. Even the best hotels face challenges, but how you respond to these complaints can set you apart as a leader in hospitality. If your guests are unhappy with your hotel, it’s time to get to work.

Improve Customer Service

Exceptional customer service is the backbone of guest satisfaction. The way your staff interacts with guests can make or break their experience at your hotel. Invest in comprehensive customer service training for your employees, teaching them not only how to address complaints promptly and professionally but also how to anticipate guest needs.

Encourage your team to greet guests with a smile, offer personalized recommendations, and go out of their way to resolve any issues before they escalate. Thoughtful gestures can leave a lasting positive impression and turn an unhappy guest into a loyal one.

Update Amenities

Outdated amenities are a common source of guest complaints, as today’s travelers expect modern conveniences during their stay. Keep your hotel competitive by regularly updating key features such as TVs, Wi-Fi connections, and climate control systems. Outdated amenities are a major sign that your hotel is in need of renovations, but it is easy to remedy.

Beyond the basics, consider investing in amenities that cater to specific needs. Adding a fitness center, spa services, or a coworking space can attract different types of travelers, from business professionals to leisure-seekers. Even small additions, like USB charging ports or eco-friendly toiletries, can show guests that you prioritize their comfort and convenience.

Focus on Cleanliness

Cleanliness is a nonnegotiable factor in any guest’s experience. Dirty rooms, bathrooms, or common areas can quickly lead to negative reviews and lost business. Make sure that your housekeeping team is thorough and detail-oriented, paying extra attention to often-overlooked areas like light switches, remote controls, or under furniture.

Consider creating a cleaning checklist for common areas like the lobby, hallways, and elevators to ensure these spaces are consistently spotless. Creating a clean, hygienic environment shows your guests that their comfort and safety are your top priorities.

Address Noise Complaints

Noise can quickly ruin a guest’s stay, making it a top concern to address. Common sources of noise complaints include:

  • Loud neighbors
  • Street sounds
  • Poorly insulated walls

Consider investing in soundproof windows, thicker curtains, and insulation between rooms to minimize noise. If your property is in a bustling area, provide white noise machines or earplugs in guest rooms as an added touch. You can also create clear policies around quiet hours and train your staff to handle noise complaints effectively.

If guests are unhappy with your hotel, look at the situation as a valuable learning opportunity. When you focus on key areas, you can boost guest satisfaction.

Published: January 24, 2025
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dan coconate

Dan Coconate

Dan Coconate is a local Chicagoland freelance writer who is pursuing his multiple interests in journalism.

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